Larry King's Estate Contested by Estranged Wife

In February 2021, the passing of legendary broadcaster Larry King sparked a legal battle over his estate, valued at approximately $2 million. His estranged wife, Shawn Southwick, contested a handwritten will from 2019 that bequeathed his assets to his five surviving children. Southwick claimed that her stepson, Larry King Jr., had exerted undue influence over King during his final days, leading to the creation of the 2019 will. This dispute was further complicated by a previous will from 2015, which named Southwick as the executor of King's estate. The legal proceedings highlighted the complexities often involved in estate planning, particularly when multiple wills exist. Ultimately, in 2024, Southwick reached a settlement with King's business management firm, Blouin & Company, resolving the contested issues surrounding the estate. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of clear and legally sound estate planning to prevent disputes among heirs and beneficiaries.